Tioman Dive Buddy

Tioman Island, Malaysia

The team at Tioman Dive Buddy are the kind of people you want to spend a week with. They’re based in Tekek, which we find a really convenient spot on Tioman, close enough to the jetty but still feels like you’re properly on island time. They’re a full-on PADI 5 Star IDC centre, which means they know their stuff whether you’re looking to get certified or want to go all the way to instructor. What we really appreciate about Tioman Dive Buddy is their focus on making every dive day feel personal. We’ve found their instructors genuinely invest in your progress, especially if you’re doing a course. We love heading out with them to Salang or Chebeh, particularly in the mornings before the crowds build. They’re great at spotting the smaller stuff, like nudibranchs tucked into the soft corals or the occasional pygmy seahorse if you’re lucky. After a dive, their debriefs feel more like chatting with friends over a cold drink, dissecting the dive and sharing stories. If you’re looking for a centre that prioritises solid training and a friendly, relaxed vibe, these are your people.